China’s Commitment to Dialogue on Maritime Disputes Emphasized at Naval Meeting in Qingdao
In a meeting of senior foreign naval officials in Qingdao, China, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Zhang Youxia, reiterated China’s commitment to resolving maritime disputes through dialogue. However, he made it clear that China will not allow itself to be “abused” in the process.
Zhang emphasized that the sea should not be a platform for countries to showcase their military strength, stating that those who provoke tensions for selfish gains will only end up hurting themselves. These comments come amidst growing tensions in the South China Sea, particularly between China and the Philippines.
The standoff in the South China Sea has become a potential flashpoint for U.S.-China relations, with Manila accusing Beijing of harassment, including the use of water cannons against Philippine vessels. The annual U.S.-Philippines joint military drills, which are being held outside Philippine territorial waters for the first time, further highlight the escalating tensions in the region.
The Western Pacific Naval Symposium, attended by countries with opposing regional interests, provides a platform for discussions on maritime security challenges and the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea. Participants, including the United States, Australia, France, India, Russia, and Britain, will engage in closed-door talks to address these issues.
The symposium serves as a rare opportunity for countries to exchange views and work towards de-escalating tensions in the region. As the world watches closely, the outcome of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for the future of maritime security in the Asia-Pacific region.